The number of deaths from coronavirus in nursing homes rises above 8,000 with 1,500 in just one week

The number of deaths from coronavirus in English and Welsh nursing homes has passed 8,300, with almost 40% of deaths in a week related to the killer virus.

Data released today by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) this morning shows that there were more than 1,500 deaths in nursing homes in the last week of April.

Increases the number of confirmed coronavirus deaths in nursing homes to 8,312 by May 1, ONS confirmed.

Earlier today, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said it was “unfair” to suggest that the care sector had been “disappointed”.

In England and Wales, the number of deaths showed signs of slowing, but still remained considerably higher than the five-year average.

A total of 6,035 death certificates issued between April 25 and May 1 mentioned Covid-19: 33.6% of all registered deaths.

The total number of deaths for the week was 8,012 higher than the five-year average, which means that the number of weekly deaths has been higher than normal for seven weeks in a row.

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Of the deaths recorded between the beginning of the year and May 1, 33,408 mentioned Covid-19 on the death certificate.

But analysis by the Press Association suggests that the actual death toll could have exceeded 40,000.

It comes after yesterday’s figures. revealed that security guards, taxi drivers, cooks and care workers are among the most exposed.